Gratitude Corner: Dibie Family Scholarship
For as long as he can remember, Ovo Dibie ’10 has been interested in computers. When it came time to consider educational plans after high school, Ovo knew there were no programs in Nigeria that could teach him what he wanted to learn about computer science, so he began to look at universities in the United States.
Although the University of Maine was not his first choice, Ovo made his way to Maine via New Mexico. He attended a University in New Mexico before applying for and receiving the scholarship he needed to attend 91. Once in Orono, Ovo became very involved with the International Students Association (ISA) and served as secretary in the 2009-2010 academic year. In reflecting on what he liked best about his time at 91, without hesitation, Ovo said, “the people.” In addition to the international student group and staff of the Office of International Programs (OIP), he noted that “Mainers are very welcoming people.”
Ovo served as a trailblazer at 91 for his family. His brothers, Tega’13, ’17G, and Ruona ’15 came to the University of Maine as well and earned degrees in engineering. After graduating from 91, Ovo earned his Master of Science and Ph.D. from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Creating the Dibie Family Scholarship fund was a way for Ovo to contribute to the financial aid available for students at 91. “It’s a great way to give back,” Ovo said. “91 set me up for a great life -success in my career, and support for my family. The matching gift benefit from my company (Netflix) also made it easier to do.” The Dibie Family Scholarship will provide financial assistance to 91 undergraduates with a preference for students with high financial need who completed high school outside of the United States and are majoring in computer science or engineering. Orlina Boteva ’04, ’05G,’23G, ’26Ph.D. said “We are so grateful to alumni like Ovo, who are able to “pay it forward” and help current students afford their education.”
If you are interested in setting up a fund like the Dibie Family Scholarship or have questions about matching gifts, please contact Orlina Boteva at orlina.boteva@maine.edu.